everything you need to know about

THORN PARKBY THE VINES

Thorn Park by the vines is in the middle of the Clare Valley Wine Region, just minutes from the Jesuit-run Sevenhill Cellars, between the little village of Sevenhill and the township of Clare. Thorn Park by the vines is situated on twelve acres of exquisite private bushland that adjoins some of the valley’s vineyards, and is a little less than two hours’ comfortable drive from Adelaide.

The living areas at Thorn Park by the vines are light-filled, looking out over spectacular bush and vineyard vistas and are superbly furnished with wonderful collections of artworks, antiques, and contemporary furnishings. Many items have been collected on Michael’s and David’s European, American and Middle Eastern travels. There are ample private places to sit and enjoy tranquillity to read a book from the extensive library, which is crammed with interesting novels and many tomes on high-quality art, history, architecture, travel, and of course also on food and wine.

Laundry A guest same-day laundry (wash and dry only) service is available.

The yellow room

The yellow bedroom is slightly smaller than the other rooms, and its yellow and blue decor give this queen-bedded room a “Chinoiserie” feel. A collection of botanical prints a superb early Australian mahogany wardrobe and cedar desk with a large arm chair add touches of both luxury and comfort.

The white room

The large White Room has western vistas over the dam and mature eucalypts. It has a king-sized bed that can be twinned. The walls are a soft white and the furnishings include a contemporary floral pattern and sheer muslin drapes which complement the collection of beautiful antiques and art works. A chaise longue provides a perfect spot to lay back and relax with a good book.

The mocha room

The spacious Mocha Room, looks over both the neighbouring northern vineyards and the protective stone ridge to the east. It has a king–sized bed that can also be twinned. The rich mocha brown walls complement the lighter contemporary fabrics used for the soft furnishings. The eclectic art works include works by local artist Russell Pick, some antique Daumier cartoons, and other works collected on the boys’ travels.

food and wine

Dinner

David Hay is a celebrated cook, and “dining” at Thorn Park by the vines means to enjoy world-class contemporary Australian cuisine. Dinner is offered nightly at the exquisite 1830’s French walnut farmhouse table, and includes wines from the property’s extensive wine cellar. It is a ‘set’ menu, changes daily and utilizes fresh regional produce.

Breakfast

Mornings start with breakfast that is of the type one always wishes for and rarely finds! Everything is homemade from the delicious sourdough breads, granola and fresh muesli, to the jams and preserves. Fresh squeezed juices, brewed teas and perfect coffees compliment the delicious cooked dishes.

Thorn Park by the vineshas an extensive wine cellar, mainly featuring wines from the Clare Valley and Kangaroo Island. Add to this quality spirits and aperitif wines. All wines and beverages are included in the tariff.

Dietary requirements must be notified prior to arrival, and every endeavour will be made to accommodate them.

cooking schools

With prior arrangement, we conduct hands-on cooking classes for our house guests.

Reservations made direct will not be confirmed until we receive a deposit or a credit card number. A deposit of $150.00 per room, per night is required to confirm a reservation. Deposits can be paid by credit card, cheque or electronic transfer.

deposit refunds

Unless the room is re-booked, deposits will not be refunded if a reservation is cancelled up to 30 days prior to the arrival date.

No shows or cancellations up to 48 hours prior to the arrival date will be charged the full price of the booking.

thorn park by the vines

has consistently received the highest accolades

Thorn Park by the Vines and owners David Hay and Michael Speers have consistently received the highest accolades both nationally and internationally. Thirty years in the business of hospitality has not in any way dulled their professionalism. If anything, over the years, they have honed and perfected the experience they offer at Thorn Park by the Vines.

David Hay is respected as one of South Australia’s most accomplished chefs and dining at Thorn Park by the Vines is world class. Hay’s passion for local and seasonal, embellished with produce picked from their kitchen garden is just the start. Michael Speers consummate front of house service and wine matching from their extensive cellars is exemplary.

This place deserves 10 stars!!
How is 5 stars enough for Thorn Park? Our group of three couples were the sole visitors for the three days we were guests here and we were made to feel so very special by our hosts Michael and David. From the warmest of welcomes,...

maria

posted on TripAdvisor

Paradise - Thorn Park by the Vines
My husband and I have just returned from our second visit to Thorn Park By the Vines and it was just fabulous as it was last year. David and Michael are the warmest hosts and share this beautiful property with you making you feel so welcome.

sandy

posted on TripScript

At Thorn Park by the Vines, every last detail is taken care of by hosts with 30 years in the business.

The Advertiser, SA WEEKEND

The Australian bush takes on a new meaning when you spend a few days at this tasteful country retreat in the heart of the Clare Valley. Thorn Park By The Vines is an idyllic vineyard retreat, complete with a well-stocked library, antiques, impressive meals, good conversation and genuine hospitality.

The Telegraph UK Travel Destinations

Thorn Park by the Vines, a beautifully decorated bucolic hideaway close to the Clare township – look for the bridge over the road with rusted iron fretwork, known locally as the Harbour Bridge. Co-owner David Hay cooks a Euro-classical four-course dinner while his partner, Michael Speers, keeps busy topping up glasses with the impeccable wine selection.

Qantas travel insider

we have three brilliant properties

luxury

In addition to Thorn Park by the Vines we also have two other properties, Thorn Park in the City, located in inner city Adelaide, South Australia and Thorn Park on the Island, located on South Australia’s pristine Kangaroo Island.